Constructionarium

Constructionarium is a not-for-profit organisation that provides residential experiential learning to students studying, or employees working within, the built environment. It is based at Bircham Newton in North Norfolk on a 19 acre bespoke training facility within the campus of CITB's National Construction College.

Delegates work in defined teams of 15-22 building a scaled replica (c30ft) of The Gherkin, Barcelona Tower, Kingsgate Footbridge, Millau Viaduct etc reporting to a client to simulate a real-life construction/infrastructure project. The immersive experiential learning opportunity enables delegates to put theory into practice and provides many technical, H&S, technical, programme and cost management, alongside significant employability skills.

For more information about Constructionarium's activities see their brochure https://www.constructionarium.uk/brochure/

In December 2025 CIC reported that John Paul Construction made history as the first Ireland based company to utilise Constructionarium’s unique hands-on training facilities, sending three cohorts of its Early Careers teams to Norfolk in England for an intensive five-day practical learning programme.

Clare Cox, Quality Manager, John Paul Construction said: “We’ve been incredibly impressed with the amount of learning our teams have achieved in just five days. Our people have been able to see the entire construction process unfold while being aligned with our own quality systems. They have gained a true understanding of the challenges and implications at each stage - including the significant impact weather can have on delivery.”

Niamh Ronan, HR Business Partner, John Paul Construction added: “Working with a training provider that genuinely understands and supports the needs of our business, and in particular employees who are at the start of their careers, has been a great experience. Constructionarium’s approach aligns perfectly with how we want our Early Careers teams to learn and grow. We look forward to returning in 2026 and exploring how we can gain even more value from the experience.”

Julia Stevens, Chief Exec of Constructionarium commented “We’re delighted to welcome John Paul Construction - our first customer from Ireland. Their learners were a delight to host and it was particularly refreshing to see one group being comprised of a female majority. With female project leads and support, it the event reflected well on John Paul Construction’s progressive outlook. We’re looking forward to continuing to work with and support this growing company as we head into the new year.”

Constructionarium’s vision is to develop the site into a “NetZero Training Facility” to provide a wider range of training to meet the governments vision to “Build Back Better” and supporting the “Construction Sector Deal” and Transforming Construction’s transformation goals. It will provide essential training for contractors, manufacturers, material providers, supply chains and design communities to enable them to meet the Government’s legal requirement of a net zero carbon economy by 2030. This will be through investment in the decarbonisation of projects, development of new “green” projects and provision of other unique innovative training provision.

For more details visit here or click on the links below.

• https://www.raeng.org.uk/publications/other/the-nuclear-island (Royal Academy of Engineering)
• https://youtu.be/DV0zj3s4B98 (Anglia Ruskin University)
• https://vimeo.com/jbknowledge/download/416109317/a4822334a0 (Texas A&M University)
• https://youtu.be/2mMJbgOAEhM (University of Reading)
• https://vimeo.com/368521744 (Multiplex)
• https://youtu.be/rdGUWAOT-Bo (Anglia Ruskin Student)
• https://youtu.be/Ue-u-Wo-04U (University College London)
• https://youtu.be/7kbfx2mEUCU (University of East London)
• https://youtu.be/ZKbaRPdv6T4 (JN Bentley)

--Julia Stevens

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Comments

Constructionarium is an educational program that offers hands-on learning experiences for students studying civil engineering, architecture, and related fields. It provides a simulated construction environment where participants can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world construction projects.

The Constructionarium program typically involves students working in teams to plan, design, and construct scaled-down versions of actual engineering projects. These projects can include bridges, buildings, dams, or other structures. Participants gain practical experience in project management, construction techniques, teamwork, and problem-solving.

The program usually takes place over a specified period, such as a week, during which students collaborate with industry professionals and instructors. They go through the entire construction process, from planning and cost estimation to building and testing the structures. Constructionarium aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application by providing a hands-on learning experience.

The specific projects and locations offered by Constructionarium may vary, but they often involve renowned engineering and construction projects. Participants can gain insights into the challenges faced by real-world construction projects and develop skills that are crucial for a career in the industry.

Constructionarium programs are typically conducted in partnership with universities, educational institutions, and industry organizations. Students interested in participating in Constructionarium should inquire with their academic institutions or visit the Constructionarium website for more information about available programs, eligibility, and application processes.